The Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship supports postdoctoral and experienced researchers from Germany to conduct research abroad. This fellowship, granted by the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation, enables researchers with above-average qualifications from Germany at all career levels and in all disciplines to conduct research with members of the Humboldt Network worldwide.

What the Fellowship Offers

The Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship allows researchers to conduct research abroad with a host from the Humboldt Network. Postdocs can apply for a 6- to 24-month fellowship, while experienced researchers can apply for a 6- to 18-month fellowship that can be split into up to three stays over three years.

The fellowship amount varies depending on the target country and individual circumstances. Use the fellowship calculator to determine the specific amount. Travel expenses are also reimbursed.

Additional support includes personal assistance during the sponsorship and flexible start dates. There are also alumni programs to assist with reintegration into Germany, including subsidies for job interviews and a twelve-month return fellowship.

Eligibility Requirements

The Feodor Lynen Research Fellowship is open to post-doctoral researchers with above-average qualifications from Germany, regardless of their research discipline. Applicants must meet specific criteria related to their career stage and nationality.

Postdocs must have completed their doctorate within the last four years or be within six months of completion. Experienced researchers must have completed their doctorate within the last twelve years. All applicants must have publications in internationally peer-reviewed academic journals.

General requirements include holding German citizenship or being academically employed in Germany at the time of application. Applicants must not have spent more than 6 months in the host country within the 18 months prior to application. A host's statement and two expert reviews are also required.

• Hold German citizenship, or be academically employed in Germany.

• Not have spent more than 6 months in the host country in the 18 months prior to applying.

• Provide a host's statement and two expert reviews.

Application Process

Applicants should discuss their research outline with their chosen academic host before applying. The application must be submitted online to the Alexander von Humboldt Foundation.

Required documents include a curriculum vitae, research outline, publication lists, key publications, doctoral certificate, and host's statement. Expert reviews must be uploaded separately by the reviewers.

Once the online application is received, a confirmation email will be sent. The applicant will then be notified of the expected selection date after the documents have been reviewed.

Key Dates and Deadlines

The Selection Committee meets every February, June, and October. Submit the completed application well in advance of the desired selection date. Applications are typically processed within four to seven months.

The deadline for meeting formal conditions, such as career stage limitations and previous stays in the host country, is the date the application is received. Successful applicants may begin their fellowship between two and twelve months after being selected.

Applicants will be informed of the outcome via email after the selection meeting. Unsuccessful applicants may request the reasons for the decision. Re-application is possible if significant improvements are made to the application.

Selection Criteria

The selection committee, consisting of researchers from various fields, bases its decisions on independent peer reviews. The assessment considers the applicant's academic career, record, and the quality of their key publications.

The originality and innovative potential of the proposed research are also evaluated, including its significance, methodology, and feasibility. The applicant's future potential and independent research profile are considered as well.

The assessment also considers the individual's life journey and educational background, with an emphasis on equal opportunities and accessibility. Historically, around 40 percent of applicants have received a fellowship.